Global Travel News

WASN’T THAT A PARTY?: Ireland celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, live

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St. Patrick’s Day is like Christmas for Tourism Ireland – the gift that keeps on giving, as the Irish – and those who’d like to be – celebrate the rich culture of the Emerald Isle, most notably on this day it’s music and drink. Or as the Irish Rovers once sang, “Wasn’t that a party?”

Today (March 17), close to 800,000 people are expected to pass through Dublin airport alone on the national holiday as the country returns to in-person events, including St. Patrick’s Day parades, after a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Millions more will celebrate around the world, in local pubs or simply by wearing a wee bit of green to the office or around the house.

To that end Tourism Ireland is launching a distinctive new music festival as part of its global celebrations today with the digital Green Button Festival designed to connect those “who can’t be in Ireland personally” with some of country’s best-loved and up-and-coming musicians.

The Green Button Festival is an invitation to celebrate Irish heritage, Irish tradition, and Ireland’s national day in a new and exciting way, says Tourism Ireland.

The unique festival can be viewed on St Patrick’s Day via Ireland.com with social media users able to look out for QR codes and ‘scan for music’ promos on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter that will lead them to the festival on their phones.

Festival-goers will be treated to an array of Irish and Northern Irish musicians playing to people around the world, amongst them the Hothouse Flowers performing at Temple Bar in Dublin, Clannad and Denise Chaila in County Donegal, Ailbhe Reddy at Dublin Castle and The Pale playing on top of the Tower Museum in Derry/Londonderry.

Ryan McMullan will be among several acts appearing from the Oh Yeah Music Centre in Belfast, which was named a UNESCO City of Music late last year.

The festival includes interactive digital billboards that will be set up New York, London, Milan, and Sydney, which will let passer-by interact with the screen and bring performances to life on the spot using their smartphones.

“This outstanding music festival will connect people all around the world with some of Ireland’s best musicians, says festival producer Martin Harte.

Canada

In Toronto, the Irish Tourist Board welcomed friends late last week to a comparatively low-key (but lots of fun) pre-St. Pat’s celebration at Noonan’s pub on the Danforth, complete with Irish band, traditional dancers, and whiskey and gin tasting.

Canadian manager Sandra Moffatt noted that 4.5 million Canadians have Irish ancestry and that with COVID restrictions now dropped in Ireland and the return to in-person events symbolized by the St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations again in Dublin, that Ireland was “rolling out the carpet” for Canadian visitors this summer.

To that end, she welcomed the announcement of significant air lift returning from Canadian carriers like Air Canada and WestJet, the former including service from Vancouver and Montreal starting in June.

Indeed, there will 34 routes from five Canadian gateways, with Moffatt declaring, “It’s a clear sign that international travel is back.”

5 FACTS ABOUT ST. PATRICK’S DAY

As one of the most popular cultural events on the planet, St Patrick’s Day is celebrated by millions every year. Yet the enigmatic and larger-than-life figure behind the annual Irish extravaganza is shrouded in mystery, with much of what is known about the ‘Apostle of Ireland’ interwoven with myth and legend. Here are some startling and quirky ‘did you know’ facts behind the folklore surrounding St. Patrick:

Patrick wasn’t Irish

Yes, it’s true, Patrick is thought to have originally come from either Wales or Scotland, where he was abducted at the age of 16 and brought to what is now Northern Ireland as a slave. He was sent to Slemish Mountain in County Antrim – still a popular pilgrimage spot to this day – to herd sheep. But after his escape he had a vision which prompted him to return to Ireland to spread the word of Christianity. Patrick remained in Ireland for the rest of his life, preaching, baptising, and founding schools, churches, and monasteries before his death in County Down, on 17 March, AD 461.

He ain’t a saint

It’s hard to believe, but the man behind Ireland’s national day is technically not a saint. Surprisingly, Patrick was never officially canonised as a saint by the Catholic Church. However, the lack of official sainthood is simply because there was no formal canonisation process in the 400s. In Patrick’s time saints were declared by popular acclamation. Calling him ‘St Patrick’ is likely to have caught on over time because of his obvious talents, gifts, and holiness.

The first St Patrick’s Day parade

It’s actually the big centres of Irish immigration in Boston (1737) and New York (1762) that have the longest laid claims to holding the first St Patrick’s Day parade, though recent research has suggested that St. Augustine, Fla., had one in 1601. This is long before they started in Ireland itself – the first parade in the country was held in Waterford in 1903, while Dublin joined the club back in 1931.

St Patrick’s colour is actually blue

Before green came on the scene, blue was the colour associated with St Patrick. The earliest depictions of Ireland’s patron saint show him clothed in blue garments, not green, and in fact when George III created a new order of chivalry for the Kingdom of Ireland in 1783 its official colour was a sky blue known as ‘St Patrick’s Blue. It’s thought that the shift to green happened over time because of Ireland’s nickname – the Emerald Isle, as well as the green in the Irish flag, the shamrock, and the idea of the country’s 40 shades of lush green fields. Things like the wearing of green and the more recent global greening of landmark buildings around the world, evolved over time.

Snakes, what snakes?

Among the many legends associated with St Patrick is that he stood on top a hillside and delivered a sermon that drove Ireland’s serpents into the sea. It’s true the island is snake-free, but in fact the story is likely an allegory for Patrick eradicating paganism on the island. Research suggests snakes were never resident in the Emerald Isle in the first place. There are no signs of snakes in the country’s fossil record and water has surrounded Ireland since the last glacial period. Before that, the region was covered in ice and would have been too cold even for reptiles.

For a Green Button Festival teaser:

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Creating a Cocktail for Cambodia

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Creating a Cocktail for Cambodia - TRAVELINDEXPhnom Penh, Cambodia, March 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Following in Raffles’ grand tradition of concocting exotic new cocktails, Mr Kong Len, the bar captain at the iconic Elephant Bar in Raffles Hotel Le Royal, brings us the “Fifth Pillar”.

While infusing locally sourced orange skin and homemade orange bitters with Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin for 15 days, Kong roasted a blend of rock salt, kaffir lime leaves, and orange zest. All the ingredients were then shaken and strained into a chilled martini glass.

Kong said he was inspired to support Cambodia’s orange and lime farmers, and wanted to create a drink that offers the zesty twang of citrus with the refreshing botanicals of gin.

The Elephant Bar first opened in 1929; early guests at the bar included Charlie Chaplin and W. Somerset Maugham. And it was here in the 1960s that the Femme Fatale was created especially for the visit of former US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Happy Hour at the Elephant Bar, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, is daily from 4 pm to 9 pm with 50% off selected drinks.

Patrons may be sated with the knowledge that a percentage of proceeds from sales of the Fifth Pillar is donated to a local NGO, Sunrise Cambodia, which supports children and struggling families in rural Cambodia.

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Meliá Hotels International to Unveil New Resort in Vietnam

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Meliá Hotels International to Unveil New Resort in Vietnam - TRAVELINDEXHanoi, Vietnam, March 17, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Spanish group’s reach in Vietnam embraces up-and-coming Quy Nhon destination. Leading global hotel group, Meliá Hotels International, is expanding its footprint in Vietnam with the announcement of a new resort, Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort, set to open on the country’s central coast in 2025.

With a setting that makes the most of both the shoreline and verdant mountainside, Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort will consist of 140 hotel rooms and 93 villas, ranging in size from 1-3 bedrooms and featuring infinity plunge pools that take in sea vistas. The resort will be spread over 12 hectares with an all day dining restaurant; an ocean-view swimming pool and pool bar; a ballroom ideal for weddings, meetings & events; a beach club & restaurant; an expansive spa; and a kid’s club and club house.

“Quy Nhon is one of the most alluring destinations in Vietnam that’s only just now emerging from the shadows of its more well-known oceanfront neighbors in Da Nang and Nha Trang,” said Ignacio Martin, Meliá’s managing director Southeast Asia. “Still relatively untouched, the location boasts the kind of diverse natural landscape, from lush tropical jungle and mangrove forests to pristine beaches, that has long attracted visitors to the country.”

The resort’s location is a short drive from Queens Beach, named for its patron queen and renowned for its golden sand and smooth egg-like rocks. The twin Cham towers, centuries-old relics from the Champa civilization, are a short distance from the property. The area is also well-known for its abundant fresh seafood.

“We plan to highlight the rich array of local seafood and produce by bringing our Spanish influence to it,” said Martin.  “Mediterranean flavors will be infused in our menu items and there will be plenty of opportunities for the Spanish custom of aperitivo with an array of tapas, Spanish wine, cocktails and mocktails.”

In Quy Nhon, Meliá plans to build on a foundation of Spanish heritage and leisure travel that goes all the way back to its establishment in the popular Mediterranean island destination of Palma de Mallorca in 1956. Since then, the hotel group has developed beachfront and city locations around the world in a sustainable manner.

“The wellbeing of guests is considered at every touch point from the small things, like ensuring the mini-bar has organic healthy choices, to larger offerings like hosting yoga and meditation classes,” said Martin. “But it’s not just the wellbeing of our guests we consider carefully. It’s the wellbeing of our planet too. Recycling, avoiding one-time use amenities and plastic bottles are just a few of the things we consider.”

Meliá Hotels International has been named the most sustainable hotel brand in Europe and Spain for the three consecutive years by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, the most comprehensive assessment in the world.

Meliá has partnered with Paradise Joint Stock Company, a local corporation that’s driving several ambitious industrial projects in the region, for the project.

The announcement of Meliá’s partnership with Paradise comes just weeks after the hotel group’s recent news of the incorporation of 12 hotels in Vietnam under the Melia Vinpearl brand. Through these latest agreements, Meliá will become the second largest hotel group in Vietnam by number of rooms – a position they plan to continue to expand on. The company first entered Vietnam more than two decades ago, with the opening of its flagship hotel Meliá Hanoi and currently has extended to 6,652 keys through 24 hotels and resorts, with 8 hotels under operation and 16 more on the way.

Paradise is a well-established local company that boasts expertise in many different fields.

“As a multi-industry economic group, owning many real estate projects, we believe that Paradise working together with Meliá Hotels International for this project is the perfect combination for the success of a leading hospitality project in this unique location in Binh Dinh province,” said Pham Van Thanh, founder of Paradise Joint Stock Company.

Meliá Quy Nhon Beach Resort will be the group’s fourth beachfront resort in Vietnam under Melia Hotels & Resorts brand, complementing properties in Da Nang, Ho Tram and Nha Trang.

About Meliá Hotels International
Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Meliá, ME by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, INNSiDE by Meliá, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the “Affiliated by Meliá” seal. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe in 2020, according to the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal’s list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of “Europe’s Climate Leaders 2021” by Financial Times. Meliá Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market index and it is the Spanish hotel leader in Corporate Reputation (Merco Ranking). 

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts
Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the most well-known brand within Meliá Hotels International; it has more than 100 city and resort hotels in the main leisure and business destinations of Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Meliá Hotels & Resorts instinctively understands the guests’ needs and lifestyle expectations and caters to every aspect of guests’ wellbeing. It offers exemplary meetings and events facilities in all key business cities and exotic locations, serving the ever-expanding conference and incentive travel market.

About Paradise Joint Stock Company
Paradise Joint Stock Company is a company established by Mr. Pham Van Thanh, who is known for owning several other companies in his investment ecosystem: Phu Tai Industrial Park- one of the top 10 largest Industry Park in Central Vietnam, Saigon Quy Nhon Hotel- 4-star standard with 148 rooms. Besides, he also owns Duy Tuan Company and Ngan Thinh Company, which are the leading companies in the wood manufacturing industry in central Vietnam. Along with owning many projects in the central coastal provinces, the group’s new strategy will thrive in the chain of resort and real estate projects in the next 5 years.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Accor Hotels Roars with Record Growth Across Greater China

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Accor Hotels Roars with Record Growth Across Greater China - TRAVELINDEX

Beijing, China, March 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Accor is advancing through 2022 with a continued focus on expanding its presence across Greater China, offering more hotels to travelers and loyalty members than ever before, from acclaimed brands such as Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, MGallery, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, and ibis. Accor’s new project signings in China reached an all-time high in 2021 – leading to more than 520 hotels now in operation and an additional 350 under development. Accor is also on track to drive even greater momentum and growth success this year.

“Surpassing 500 hotels in Greater China truly is a milestone of which we are extremely proud. This achievement is a result of the powerful connection that Accor’s brands and our dynamic team members have forged over the past 35 years with owners and guests throughout this region,” said Gary Rosen, CEO, Accor Greater China. “We are really excited about our strong momentum in 2022 and beyond. On average, every five days a new Accor-branded hotel is opened in the region to meet the ever-growing demand for high-quality hospitality experiences. Accor provides one of the most diverse brand portfolios in the world, positioning us well to continue introducing more brands, more hotels, and more experiences for leisure and corporate travelers across Greater China.”

China’s emergence as an economic leader has redrawn the lines of global tourism, with China set to overtake the US as the world’s largest economy within the next decade. According to research from Euromonitor International, China is on track to become the world’s #1 global tourism destination by 2030, while continuing to be a world leader in fueling outbound tourism to other countries. Meanwhile, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has hailed China as the world’s #1 domestic tourism market. The WTTC cites China’s 62% absolute growth in domestic tourism since 2008, pushing it up the list from fourth position to the top spot today. This dovetails neatly with the China Tourism Academy’s forecast for 2022, which anticipates a return to nearly 70% of pre-Covid levels of domestic travel this year.

“China is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive economies in the world for hotel development and Accor is proud to lead this important market,” said Agnès Roquefort, Chief Development Officer, Accor. “Accor’s brand portfolio is a key differentiator for the Group and will be a driving force in our success. Close to 40% of our hotels in China are at the luxury and premium level, while we retain a stronghold in the midscale and economy segments. This puts us in an enviable position and combined with our deep local knowledge and the expertise of our regional development and commercial teams, we have a flexible and highly compelling value proposition to offer owners and developers.”

Across Greater China, Accor’s top flagship hotels are well-known and beloved by travelers, including Raffles Shenzhen, Fairmont Peace Hotel, Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an, Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich, DongFengYun Hotel Mi’Le – MGallery, Pullman Shanghai South, and Novotel Guangzhou Airport. Some of the most popular, high-profile openings of 2021 included Fairmont Sanya Haitang Bay, Sofitel Hangzhou Yingguan Hotel, Pullman Jiaxing Pinghu Excellence Hotel, Ocean Spring Resort Chengdu – MGallery, Novotel Zhengzhou Airport Hotel and Grand Mercure Pingxiang Kaiguang Hotel.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2022, The Year of the Tiger will bring some highly-anticipated new flagship hotels to life, such as Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Fairmont Xiamen, and Sofitel Shanghai North Bund. This year will also see the grand return of the beloved landmark, Swissôtel Beijing, following three years of extensive renovations and restyling.

Accor’s newest luxury brand, Emblems Collection, will open its first hotel in the world in December 2022 – a magnificent flagship hotel, Guiyang Art Centre Hotel, Emblems Collection, in Guizhou province. The new brand has a goal to create a unique global portfolio exceeding 60 boutique hotels and luxurious resorts by 2030, which will certainly include additional properties in China.

MGallery Hotel Collection is a brand to watch – with not one, but two – hotels opening in Hong Kong this year. The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery creates a serene retreat on Lantau Island, while AKI Hong Kong – MGallery complements the neighborhood buzz of Wan Chai with a stylish energy. Upcoming MGallery destinations include Shenzhen’s vibrant Dalang District; Wuxi Dangkou Ancient Town; as well as Guangzhou.

One of China’s top performing premium brands, Pullman, has multiple new properties slated to open in 2022, including Pullman Nanchang Xinlv, Pullman Shenzhen North Station, Pullman Chongqing Beibei, and Pullman Wuhan Airport New City. These are in addition to Pullman Dali, Pullman Haikou and Pullman Suzhou Taicang which have been open since January 2022. Greater China has more Pullman Hotels & Resorts than any other country in the world, with nearly fifty hotels in operation, a record number of new project signings, and no signs of slowing.

The power of Accor’s midscale and economy brands is also noteworthy. Novotel, a longtime favorite amongst travelers, continues to push forward with innovative new design concepts and exciting openings like Novotel Guangzhou Airport and Novotel Chengdu Tianfu Living, both set to open in 2022. Other upcoming destinations for the beloved brand include Novotel Wuxi Wanshan Lake, Novotel Xi’an Aden, and Novotel Qingdao Downtown. Not to be outdone, one of Accor’s top midscale brands, Mercure, has been singled out as one of the fastest growing brands in the world, according to a past ranking from Brand Finance. Mercure currently has more than 110 hotels in Greater China, and nearly 100 more in development. Additionally, Accor’s trailblazing economy brand, ibis, now offers more than 200 hotels in Greater China, a truly remarkable achievement.

“Accor was founded on the premise of building innovative brands and boldly expanding them throughout the world,” added Mr. Rosen. “As we progress through 2022, all of us at Accor look forward to sharing even more exciting news about our growing portfolio in Greater China and around the world, as we embrace each opportunity with the strength, confidence and adventurous spirit that the Year of the Tiger inspires.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dufry Extends Duty-Free Concession at Bali International Airport

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Dufry Extends Duty-Free Concession at Bali International Airport - TRAVELINDEX

Basel, Switzerland, March 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Dufry, leading global travel retailer, has successfully extended its duty-free concession at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport for another six years, which in 2019 welcomed 14 million travelers, and where Dufry has been operating since 2013. The new six-year contract also includes an increase in retail space of over 1,400 m2, thus extending the total sales area to over 3,600 m2, which will allow for the introduction of fashion and accessories as new categories.

The newly extended concession contract includes duty-free shops in both the international departure and arrival areas. The shops, mainly conceived as walk-through concepts, offer a wide assortment of the core duty-free categories such as perfume & cosmetics alongside liquor, tobacco and confectionery, providing travelers with a distinctive sense of place. In addition, travelers will also be able to enjoy a comprehensive offer of globally renowned fashion and accessory brands presented in twenty dedicated shops, allowing for an attractive positioning of luxury and premium labels. The fashion and accessories offer will be complemented by the dedicated House of Sarinah concept store featuring the best of Indonesian-made and internationally available iconic products from all over the country. Customers will thus benefit from a unique selection of fashion and accessories made possible through Dufry’s partnership with PT Sarinah (Persero) and their knowhow on local Indonesian labels.

Commenting on the new contract, Pedro Castro, Chief Operating Officer Asia-Pacific, said: “We are very proud to have been awarded the extension of this important Asian tourist destination, which attracts travelers from all over the world. We will honor the renewed trust from our partners of Angkasa Pura I and foster the longstanding relationship, by providing visitors of Bali International Airport with a further enhanced shopping experience meeting highest international standards and featuring a considerably extended product assortment.”

Aidhil Julian, Co General Manager Commercial I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport – Bali, added: “We are glad to have this opportunity to extend our partnership with Dufry. With the reputation of Bali Airport, who has earned top ten spots of safest airports in Southeast Asia for Covid-19 health and safety measures in 2021 according to Safe Travel Barometer, we are ready to combine the uniqueness of Bali with global expertise to captivate our passenger’s interest and leave them with the unforgettable shopping experience.”

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO Strengthens Partnership with Saudi Arabia

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UNWTO Strengthens Partnership with Saudi Arabia - TRAVELINDEX

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 14, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / UNWTO and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have agreed on the next steps they will jointly take to establish tourism as a driver of growth, opportunity and development across the Middle East and beyond.

Less than a year after the official opening of the Regional Office for the Middle East in Riyadh, plans for a range of projects to be run out of the hub have been further advanced, signalling the ever closer cooperation between UNWTO and the Kingdom.

A range of projects is being designed to establish UNWTO’s Regional Office as a leader in tourism for rural development while also making the opportunities of tourism available to everyone through a range of education initiatives. Meeting in Madrid this week, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili and Saudi Minister for Tourism HE Ahmed Aqeel AlKhateeb agreed to further advance their shared vision and committed to working closely together to fulfil the sector’s potential across the region.

Rural Development and digitalization
Among the projects being managed by the Regional Office is the UNWTO Global Tourism and Rural Development Programme, aimed at making tourism a pillar of growth and opportunity for rural communities. The Programme includes the world’s Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative, now in its second year after the inaugural competition drew huge interest from destinations in every global region. Alongside this, the Regional Office will also focus on knowledge creation for policy and business practices, training and skills development and Technical Assistance on the ground, with plans also in place to establish a first Tourism and Rural Development Observatory in Riyadh.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili and HE Minister Ahmed Aqeel AlKhateeb emphasised their commitment to guiding tourism based on education and innovation. From the Regional Office, UNWTO will support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) embrace digitalization with partnerships with the largest technology companies such as Amadeus, Mastercard, Cisco, Telefónica, amongst others already established. The UNWTO Digital Futures Programme aims to provide training on connectivity, e-commerce, big data and analytics, and online payments and security, to as many as 20,000 SMEs in 22 countries, including 5,000 in the first 12 months. Later this month (25-26 March), a UNWTO Tourism Tech Adventures innovation forum will be in the United Arab Emirates.

Education
To realize the goal of creating more added-value jobs in tourism through education. To this end, a new UNWTO Knowledge Lab will be launched from Riyadh, while a first Observatory on Quality of Tourism Education and Jobs will also be established to monitor the advancement of the strategy. To ensure the benefits of tourism education are enjoyed as widely as possible, 10 new online courses will be made available in Arabic through the UNWTO Tourism Online Academy, and UNWTO will also work with higher education providers from the region through the new Tourism Faculty Development Programme.

Green investments for green transitions
In line with UNWTO’s wider commitment to advancing tourism for climate action, plans are in place to make the Regional Office for the Middle East a hub for promoting green investments in the tourism sector, both in the region and worldwide, including through projects developed in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and other partners such as the Saudi Tourism Development Fund (TDF) – responding to the UNWTO climate action framework ,outlined in the Glasgow Declaration, launched at COP26.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Marriott Appoints First-Ever Female General Manager in Saudi Arabia

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Marriott Appoints First-Ever Female General Manager in Saudi Arabia - TRAVELINDEX

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 13, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Marriott International made history for women in hospitality. Marriott announced the appointment of its first-ever female general manager in KSA: Marina Krasnobrizhaya at The St. Regis Riyadh.

Journey to Marriott’s first female general manager in Saudi

Krasnobrizhaya brings almost 17 years of international experience in the hotel industry. A Marriott International stalwart, she joins The St. Regis Riyadh following her recent position as director of operations at The Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel in London. Prior to this, she held senior roles at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Hotel Arts Barcelona.

One of her earliest roles with Marriott was in her home country of Russia where she worked as a front desk agent of The Ritz-Carlton Moscow. Staying with the five-star Ritz-Carlton brand for a decade, she went on to become front desk supervisor, assistant front desk manager and front desk manager at the hotel over four years.

“Marina brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are delighted to have her join The St. Regis Riyadh,” said Ahmed Hozaien, area VP – Saudi Arabia, Bahrain & Egypt, Marriott International. “Marina’s appointment adds valuable leadership to the property, and highlights Marriott International’s commitment to championing the advancement of women in executive positions.”

Commenting on her appointment, Krasnobrizhaya said, “I am delighted to take on this new role and look forward to working with the team to deliver an uncompromising level of bespoke service and exquisite experiences in the city’s best address.”

Marriott growing female talent in Saudi

Marriott also used its statement announcing the appointment to address the progress it is making for wider female representation in the Kingdom’s hotel field.

Its Saudi edition of Tahseen – a leadership fasttrack programme – recorded 50 candidates in 2021, of which nearly 50 percent were women – marking the highest enrollment of women into the programme since its launch in 2018. Since inception, Tahseen’s Saudi edition has had over 100 graduates the majority of which are now employed at Marriott International properties across the Kingdom in managerial, supervisor and director roles across functions such as sales, HR, F&B, marketing, finance and operations.

The company plans to launch the fourth edition of its Tahseen programme in the Kingdom this year, said the statement.

Doors opening

Krasnobrizhaya’s appointment has also been announced during the same week Marriott’s first-ever female GM in the whole Middle East announced her retirement.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Iconic Sea Ranch Lodge Now Reopen Following Extensive Renovation

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Iconic Sea Ranch Lodge Now Reopen Following Extensive Renovation - TRAVELINDEX

The Sea Ranch, California, United States, March 12, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Sea Ranch Lodge reopened to the public in October 2021 following an extensive revitalization project that breathes new energy into the iconic property while preserving the original architecture and integrity. The remodel features architectural design by Mithun, landscape architecture by TERREMOTO, interior design by The Office of Charles de Lisle and construction by David Hillmer.

“With the restoration and reopening of The Sea Ranch Lodge, we are excited to honor the vision of the original developer and original group of architects including Al Boeke, Lawrence Halprin, and MLTW (Charles Moore, Donlyn Lyndon, William Turnbull and Richard Whitaker)—stewardship and respect of the land, sustainability for The Sea Ranch and creating a gathering place for all Sea Ranchers,” said Kristina Jetton, general manager of The Sea Ranch Lodge. “As we continue to fulfill their original masterplan, we will always design and host experiences here that live in harmony with the natural elements that make The Sea Ranch so special. We look forward to welcoming Sea Ranchers, locals, visitors and the next generation of creators to dine at our new restaurant, walk the trails, enjoy a memorable event in the meadow, or simply come by and be inspired by this magical coastal setting.”

Set on 53 acres of spectacular Northern California coastline in Sonoma County, the iconic Sea Ranch Lodge was designed to respond to—and live in harmony with—the natural elements. The Sea Ranch Lodge includes a dining room, bar and lounge, café, general store, post office and extensive open space with views of the Pacific. Located 100 miles north of San Francisco along Highway 1, the Lodge exists within the greater 7,000-acre Sea Ranch community which consists of 2,200 private homes clustered at intervals marked by cypress hedgerows, undeveloped lots, sprawling meadows, rolling hills, redwood and Douglas fir forests, nature trails and ocean views across 10 miles of the Pacific’s coastal shelf.

Design Perspectives: History, Inspiration And Renewal

The architectural renovation of the Lodge was inspired by the original Sea Ranch architecture and the landscape behind its vision: the wind-shaped coastline and traditional barns. Lawrence Halprin, lead designer of the Sea Ranch master plan, directed architects to “focus on how to inhabit the land and protect the awesome character without softening it or altering it.” The Sea Ranch Design Guidelines put it this way: “This is not a place for the grand architectural statement; it is a place to explore the subtle nuances of fitting in—blending buildings into the existing environmental setting and the historical context.”

With those lessons in mind, Mithun’s goal with the Lodge was to simplify and clarify the original structure to focus the experience on the natural setting and exceptional views. We started with the removal of previous remodels, which had compromised the original building. We then continued to remove walls and partitions that had subdivided spaces, separating them from light and views. Spaces were opened and recombined to create a simpler plan with better connection to the exterior. Respect for the history of the building was fundamental to the design. Any required new elements were constructed in the simple agricultural language of the original with similar basic materials and details.

The Lodge experience was updated and expanded with the addition of a café to replace the previous reception/office area, integration of the solarium space into the lounge, and a new open layout for the kitchen which has also improved the dining room. The original building had followed the slope of the site, resulting in four slightly different levels at the main floor. These have been simplified to allow disabled access to all public spaces. Occupant comfort and building performance has also been improved with insulated windows, integrated sun shading, improved lighting, and a sound-absorptive ceiling in the lounge and dining rooms. The public spaces are oriented toward the true amenity of the Sea Ranch Lodge: a meadow rolling gently toward the Pacific Ocean.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Banyan Tree Krabi Appoints Wellbeing Specialist

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Banyan Tree Krabi Appoints Wellbeing Specialist - TRAVELINDEXKrabi, Thailand, March 16, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / Banyan Tree Krabi continues to refine and expand its holistic and spiritual ambiance at the resort with the appointment of Dr. Subhash Shanbhag as Wellbeing Practitioner/ Consultant.

Originally from southern India, Subhash has lived in Thailand for 10 years and has an extensive background as an Ayurvedic doctor, counselor, and wellness specialist.

He joins his compatriot Bikram Keshari Patra, who is the Wellbeing Practitioner at sister resort Banyan Tree Samui.

Both hotels offer the option of a unique Wellbeing Sanctuary program to guests with a number of pool villas set aside for those who wish to combine a leisure vacation with a daily program designed to enrich mind, body and soul — from meditation to Thai boxing, from massage and hydrotherapy to nature trails and sailing lessons —  complemented with a nutritious diet and personal consultations.

The 72-key beachfront resort in Krabi opened its doors to visitors in October 2020. Alongside Banyan Tree Samui, it introduced the Wellbeing Sanctuary initiative five months ago based on Banyan Tree’s own “8 Pillars” principle: Dietary Awareness; Physical Vitality; Cultivate the Mind; Sleep & Rest; Harmony with Nature; Learning & Development; Bonding & Connection; and Sustained Practices.

ABOUT BANYAN TREE HOLDINGS LIMITED
Banyan Tree Holdings Limited (“Banyan Tree” or the “Group”) is a leading international operator and developer of premium resorts, hotels, residences and spas, with 47 hotels and resorts, 63 spas, 72 retail galleries, and three golf courses in 24 countries. Each resort typically has between 75 to 300 rooms and commands room rates at the higher end of each property’s particular market.

The Group’s primary business is centred on four brands: the award-winning Banyan Tree and Angsana, as well as newly established Cassia and Dhawa. Banyan Tree also operates the leading integrated resort in Thailand – Laguna Phuket — through the Group’s subsidiary, Laguna Resorts & Hotels Public Company Limited. Two other integrated resorts – Laguna Bintan in Indonesia and Laguna Lăng Cô in Central Vietnam – complete the status of the Group as the leading operator of integrated resorts in Asia.

As a leading operator of spas in Asia, Banyan Tree’s spas are one of the key features in their resorts and hotels. Its retail arm Banyan Tree Gallery complements and reinforces the branding of the resort, hotel and spa operations.

Since the launch of the first Banyan Tree resort, Banyan Tree Phuket, in 1994, Banyan Tree has received over 2,600 awards and accolades for the resorts, hotels and spas that the Group manages. The Group has also received recognition for its commitment to sustainability for environmental protection and emphasis on corporate social responsibility.

In addition to its currently operating hotels, resorts, spas and golf courses, the Group currently has 21 hotels and resorts under construction, and another 25 under development.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Tanah Gajah Ubud Readies Welcomes Back with Bali Package

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Tanah Gajah Ubud Readies Welcomes Back with Bali Package - TRAVELINDEXUbud, Bali, Indonesia, March 15, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Ubud property navigates local requirements so guests can start their holiday immediately. As the island of the gods opens up to international travelers this month, an iconic resort in the tropical island’s spiritual hub of Ubud is ready to host guests as an officially appointed hotel.

The boutique property, Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, has been chosen by the Indonesian government as one of the hotels visitors can stay at as part of the “Warm Up Vacation” requirement, officially promoted by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism. Although visitors may move around Bali freely after testing negative for COVID at the airport, they are still required to stay at the same hotel during their first three nights in the country.

The Tanah Gajah Ubud team have crafted a short-stay package, “Welcome Back,” that allows guests to relax and unwind in comfort while meeting the local COVID requirements for a getaway to the island.

This month Bali reinstated its visa on arrival services for 23 countries and revoked mandatory quarantine for vaccinated international travelers. However there are still some requirements, such as two PCR Tests (one on arrival at the airport and one at the end of the three-night stay) as well as 30 days of health insurance protection. Testing and insurance are included in the resort’s latest offering.

Also included in the package: airport pick up; personal hand sanitiser, face mask and disinfectant in each villa; a personal butler service; WiFi; daily afternoon tea; a daily sunset cocktail; complimentary minibar including alcohol selections (replenished daily); daily laundry up to six pieces per villa; access to wellness facilities; a UV light treatment in the villa prior to check-in; and a daily nanotechnology spray treatment for the villa, to minimize potential infections. However it’s the property’s location and rich cultural heritage that are the real drawing card for visitors.

Moored amid rice paddies in the uplands of Bali, and a destination unto itself, the 20-key property is spread out over a lush six hectares of land. With roots that go back to legendary designer and art collector, Hendra Hadiprana, the property has long attracted art and design lovers. It was originally built in the 1980s as a holiday home for Hadiprana and his family and was transformed into a resort in 2004. Though the Hadiprana family relinquished its occupancy of the site as a private family compound, the patriarch’s art collection remained, and numerous sculptures, antiques, and artwork from his travels can be found throughout the property to this day.

The resort offers two dining destinations, The Tempayan and Panen Padi Lounge. The new Tempayan was unveiled in 2020 with a design inspired by wantilan, a Balinese style pavilion. The tapas outlet, Panen Padi Lounge, also debuted during the pandemic. Both locations command prime locations with views over rice paddies and the resort’s hot air balloon experience.

The resort’s spa also takes in the property’s quintessential Balinese landscape, while the main pool is guarded over by Ganesh statues and partially flanked by ponds with resident swans. Private pool villas are available for guests who would like to enjoy a dip in privacy.

Tanah Gajah Ubud has strict health protocols. All staff are fully vaccinated and the property was awarded a 100% score for its CHSE (cleanliness, health, safety and environment) certification from the Indonesian government. The entire property is sprayed down with disinfectant twice a week and housekeeping disinfects guest rooms on a daily basis.

Package prices start at IDR 9,100,000 nett (Approximately USD 640) for single occupancy in a One Bedroom Club Suite (70 sqm) and range up to IDR 14,300,000 nett (Approximately USD 640) for double occupancy in a One Bedroom Club Pool Villa (280 sqm).

After the three night stay guests have the option of staying on or continuing their journey with Hadiprana through a stay at Dua Dari, a Residence by Hadiprana. Dua Dari consists of four residences in a jungle valley overlooking the Petanu River. The hotel was Hendra Hadiprana’s private residence after Tanah Gajah Ubud became a resort. Like its sister property, his extensive art collection can still be found throughout the site and the majority of the decor and furniture were once part of Tanah Gajah Ubud.

The Welcome Back package is valid until June 30, 2022.

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News